The Killer Inside Me

I'll admit upfront that I don't really get Winterbottom and the hype around his films. Sure, I liked 24 Hour Party People and Code 46 was kind of interesting enough, but for a man who gets lauded for his direction I see a lot of ideas over actual substance or style. He seems incapable of the basic tenants of film making. I was also dubious about the hype and media attention around the violence against women in this. It all seemed like some dubious Daily Mail headline. As someone who watches a lot of foreign films I'm kind of desensitised to it to a degree. Its only in the English- speaking West that we seem to be unable to comprehend that murderers, rapists, child molesters and lawyers can hit women too. Its like some stupid unwritten Hollywood code from the 1930s and has nothing to do with real life.

Anyway, I digress. I've avoided most of the hype around this so I went down to The Showroom on Friday with an open mind. The thing that stands out the most about this film is Casey Affleck. He puts in an extraordinary performance that should, if there was any justice, see him up for the Oscar nod. He is perfect for the character and scarily believable. He pulls off the evolution of Lou with aplomb. The other central performances are strong (although it gets a bit Lynchian at times with some of the cast)

The direction is sound, if slow at times, and the script does enough without trying too hard. Its beautifully filmed and realised and the flashes of macabre humour are ingenious.

Now for the controversial bit - the violence. There are two main issues I guess. Firstly, the connection between violence and arousal. I suppose this really goes back to Straw Dogs in a way, but this isn't the 70s any more. People have to accept that some people get turned on by "a bit of rough". Secondly, the violence against women. There are two main scenes of this, and yes, especially the first one is pretty hard to stomach. I must admit it did almost make me laugh though as I wish I could take a punch that well. It did begin to border on the comedic after a bit. But, there's a reason behind it and it's not just thrown in to garner publicity or cheap thrills. In fact, the whole film is very intelligently and carefully written to show the journey Lou undertakes to make him the man he is.

I left this thinking it was a good film, a solid 7/10. The more I think about it though, the better it becomes. It's so well crafted that it stays with you and I'd say, on reflection, that it's a good 8/10. Well worth checking out but if you're not prepared to accept the violence then don't bother.